The journey begins at Qubur el-Yahood (“The Graves of the Jews”), a series of impressive rock-cut tombs believed in the past to be associated with the Maccabean family. These ancient burial structures date back to the Byzantine period but were thought to be the final resting place of Jewish figures from the Second Temple era. Your guide will discuss theories and historical sources that connect this site to the Hasmonean dynasty, offering insight into Jewish burial traditions.
Next, you will visit Khirbet El-Midieh, a site opposite the Arab village of El-Midieh. Several scholars proposed El-Midiah to be the location of ancient Modi’in, and Khirber El-Midieh (Also called KH. Sheikh el Garabwai) to be the site of the 
The tour then takes you to Khirbet Titurah, a hilltop site with archaeological remains spanning multiple periods, including the Hasmonean and Crusader eras. This location also offers panoramic views of the Modi’in region, making it an excellent place to discuss its strategic importance throughout history. Excavations have revealed fortifications, winepresses, and agricultural installations, indicating that this was an active settlement during the time of the Maccabees and beyond.
For families or those interested in a more interactive experience, the tour can include a visit to the new 
The tour concludes at Umm el-Umdan, home to one of the oldest known synagogues in Israel, dating back to the Herodian and Hasmonean period (2nd century BCE). Discovered during modern excavations in the 1990s, this synagogue features stone benches, a central hall, and columns, offering a rare glimpse into early Jewish communal life. Surrounding the synagogue are ruins of a Jewish village, including homes, ritual baths (mikva’ot), and streets that may have been part of the ancient Modi’in settlement.
Depending on time, the tour could also include a visit Emmaus. Located near Latrun Junction, the site of Emmaus-Nicopolis is traditionally associated with Jesus’ post-resurrection appearance (Luke 24:13-35). Nevertheless, a Crusader-era church built atop earlier Byzantine ruins, has led some scholars to propose that it commemorates the Maccabeans. The connection is speculative but intriguing, given Emmaus’ mention in 1 Maccabees 3:40 as a Seleucid military camp conquered by the Macabees. While primarily a Christian pilgrimage site, its possible Jewish significance adds depth to its historical and religious importance.
Tracing Ancient Modi’in
Step back in time on a fascinating tour dedicated to tracking ancient Modi’in, the legendary hometown of the Maccabees. Mentioned in 1 Maccabees and other historical sources, Modi’in was the birthplace of Mattathias the Hasmonean and his sons, who led the revolt against the Seleucid Greeks in the 2nd century BCE. While modern Modi’in is a thriving city, the surrounding hills and archaeological sites hold echoes of its ancient past. This tour will take you through key locations linked to the Hasmonean era and other historical periods in the quest of tracking ancient Modi’in.
